Reasons for Procedure

This procedure is done if you cannot urinate and a catheter cannot be passed through your urethra to help you urinate. The urethra is where urine passes out of the body from the bladder. Urine may not be able pass through the urethra due to:

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

Talk to your doctor about any medications, herbs, or supplements you are taking. You may be asked to stop taking some medications up to one week before the procedure.

In the days before the surgery:

Arrange for a ride home from the hospital.

You may need to avoid eating for 8 hours before the surgery.

If instructed by your doctor, drink only clear liquids (such as water, clear juices, tea). You may be asked to drink extra fluids to fill the bladder.

Note: These steps may not be possible in an emergency situation.

Anesthesia

Local anesthesia may be used with or without sedation. You will not have any pain during the procedure.

Description of the Procedure

After anesthesia has numbed the area, the doctor will locate the bladder using imaging tools such as
ultrasound
if needed. Next, a needle will be inserted through your lower abdomen and into your bladder. A wire will then be guided through the needle into the bladder to prepare the site for a catheter. A special catheter will be placed into the bladder over the wire. The catheter will be sutured in place. A balloon may be inflated to keep the catheter in place. Afterward, the opening made in the skin (called a stoma) will be covered with gauze.

How Long Will It Take?

10-45 minutes

How Much Will It Hurt?

Anesthesia will prevent pain during surgery. Pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medications.

Average Hospital Stay

You will either stay in the hospital overnight or go home the same day.

Post-procedure Care

At the Hospital

The hospital staff will:

Monitor your recovery

Help you to eat and move around again

Give you pain medication

Teach you how to care for your catheter

During your stay, the hospital staff will take steps to reduce your chance of infection such as:

Washing their hands

Wearing gloves or masks

Keeping your incisions covered

There are also steps you can take to reduce your chances of infection such as:

Washing your hands often and reminding visitors and healthcare providers to do the same

Reminding your healthcare providers to wear gloves or masks

Not allowing others to touch your incisions

At Home

You will have to restrict your activities while you recover. Follow instructions on cleaning the stoma. It will help prevent infection. The hospital staff will teach you how to change the catheter and collection bag. Your doctor may advise medication, such as pain relievers or antibiotics.

Call Your Doctor

After you leave the hospital, call your doctor if any of the following occurs:

Pain or cramps

Redness or soreness around the catheter site

Catheter fails to drain

Catheter falls outs

Changes in frequency, odor, appearance, or volume of urine

Signs of infection, including fever or chills

Bloody urine

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.